Experimental Study of CO₂ Capture in a Model Wind Turbine Array

Mitigating climate change requires a multi-faceted approach through actively removing carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and reducing emissions. Direct air capture (DAC) of CO₂ is a tool for reducing the impact of human-induced climate change; however, the relatively low concentration of CO₂ capture potential in the lower atmosphere makes this technology inefficient. Various studies emphasize the role turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) fluxes play in energy entrainment in horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs). Here, we explore how turbulent kinetic energy fluxes allow CO₂ capture within a model wind turbine array. Experiments were performed in a wind tunnel with several CO₂ concentration profiles mimicking those in the field to examine the viability of enhanced carbon capture. Advanced flow diagnostics, including particle image velocimetry, infrared imaging, and CO₂ concentration sensors, are used to quantify local CO₂ increase concentration within the turbine array.